Guide to: Getting a Driver’s License in Florida
For many newcomers to South Florida—whether you’ve just arrived from Brazil or another part of the world—obtaining a Florida driver’s license is one of the most important steps toward building your new life. Not only is it essential for legally driving, but it also serves as a primary form of identification across the United States.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk through everything you need to know: who needs a Florida license, what documents to bring, the steps involved in the process, tips for international drivers, and practical advice to make the experience as smooth as possible.
Why You Need a Florida Driver’s License
Florida law requires that you obtain a state driver’s license within 30 days of establishing residency. “Establishing residency” can mean:
Enrolling children in a Florida school
Registering to vote in Florida
Accepting employment in Florida
Living in the state for more than six consecutive months
Even if you already hold a valid driver’s license from another U.S. state, you must exchange it for a Florida license once you become a resident.
Types of Florida Driver’s Licenses
Before you begin, it’s important to understand which type of license applies to you:
Class E License – The most common, for operating standard cars and light trucks.
Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) – For driving larger commercial vehicles such as trucks and buses.
Learner’s Permit – For those under 18 or first-time drivers starting out.
Most newcomers only need a Class E license, which is what this guide focuses on.
Step 1: Gather Your Required Documents
Florida follows the federal REAL ID Act standards, so you must bring specific documents when applying. These include:
Proof of Identity
Valid passport
Birth certificate (certified copy)
Permanent resident card (Green Card)
Employment authorization card
Proof of Social Security Number (if applicable)
Social Security card
W-2 form
Pay stub showing your SSN
Two Proofs of Florida Residential Address
Utility bill
Rental agreement or mortgage statement
Bank statement
Proof of Legal Presence (for non-U.S. citizens)
Valid visa and I-94 form
Employment authorization or immigration documents
💡 Tip: All documents must be originals (no photocopies). If any are not in English, bring certified translations.
Step 2: Transfer or Take the Driver’s Test
If You Already Have a License from Another U.S. State:
You can usually transfer your license without having to take a written or driving test. You’ll only need to pass a vision and hearing screening.
If You Have a License from Another Country:
Reciprocal agreements: Some countries have reciprocity with Florida, but Brazil is not currently included. This means Brazilian license holders must take the full written exam and driving test.
International Driving Permit (IDP): You may use an IDP with your foreign license to drive temporarily, but once you’re a resident, you must apply for a Florida license.
If You’re a First-Time Driver in the U.S.:
You’ll need to:
Take the Drug and Alcohol Course (TLSAE) – Available online (4 hours).
Pass the Knowledge Exam – A written test covering road rules and signs.
Pass the Driving Skills Test – Conducted at the DMV or an approved third-party tester.
Complete a Vision and Hearing Test – Administered at the DMV office.
Step 3: Visit the Florida DMV (Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles)
You must visit a Florida DHSMV (also called “Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles” or simply “DMV”) office in person to finalize your license application.
Schedule an appointment online in advance (wait times can be long).
Bring all required documents.
Pay the applicable fees.
Costs (as of 2025):
Class E license (new or renewal): $48
Knowledge exam: $10
Driving skills test: $20
Drug and Alcohol course: $20–$30 (varies by provider)
Step 4: Get Your Temporary and Permanent License
Once you pass all the requirements, you’ll be issued a temporary paper license. Your official plastic license card will arrive by mail within 7–14 business days.
Tips for Brazilians and Other International Newcomers
Bring translated documents – If your Brazilian birth certificate or driver’s license is required, it must be translated by a certified translator.
Practice U.S. road rules – Traffic laws differ from Brazil. For example:
In Florida, you can generally turn right on red lights (after a complete stop).
Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers under 18 and for drivers.
Cell phone use while holding the phone is prohibited in school and construction zones.
Get insurance before driving – You must have valid car insurance to register and drive a vehicle in Florida.
Check for F-1 visa considerations – International students may qualify for licenses as long as they maintain valid immigration status.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Not bringing the right proof of address – A hotel bill, for example, is not accepted.
Not scheduling the driving test early – Appointments fill up quickly, especially in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and West Palm Beach.
Assuming your foreign license exempts you – Unless your country has reciprocity, you must test.
Failing the vision test – If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them.
Renewal and Validity
A Florida driver’s license is valid for 8 years (for drivers under 80).
Renewal can often be done online if your information hasn’t changed.
Non-U.S. citizens will only receive licenses valid for the duration of their immigration documents.
Final Thoughts
Getting a U.S. driver’s license in Florida may feel overwhelming at first, especially if you’re new to the American system. However, with the right preparation—gathering documents, studying the rules, and scheduling your appointments—it’s a straightforward process.
For Brazilians and other newcomers, earning your Florida license is more than just passing a test. It’s a big step toward independence, mobility, and truly feeling at home in South Florida.
Now let’s go buy a car!
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